James L. Spencer

James Lee Spencer, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at the age of 88 in Princeton, Minnesota. Born on August 25, 1937, in Cambridge, Minnesota.

Jim’s early life in Cambridge was filled with fond memories and the love of his parents, Ronald “Barney” and Frances (Larson) Spencer.  He graduated from Cambridge High School in 1955, marking the beginning of a lifetime of service and commitment. Following high school, Jim honorably served in the United States Army, a period of his life that would instill in him a sense of discipline and patriotism that he carried with him always.

On October 29, 1966, Jim married the love of his life, Darla Wedel, in Deerwood, Minnesota.

Jim’s professional life was as varied as it was successful. He began his career at Gillespie Auto in Cambridge and then went on to own and operate Freedom Auto in both Cambridge and Princeton for over two decades. Even after retiring from the car business, Jim's industrious spirit led him to work at FleetGo and later at Menards in Cambridge for 20 years.

A lifelong member of Cambridge Lutheran Church, Jim’s Christian faith was a guiding force in his life. He led the men's group with passion and was an integral part of the church community, particularly known for his involvement in the annual lutefisk dinners, which he approached with both reverence and a sense of humor.

Jim’s interests outside of work and church were many and varied. Jim's passion for life extended to his love of golf, where he was a regular in the men's league at the Purple Hawk and his trips to Florida. He took immense pleasure in attending his grandsons’ activities and supporting them in every endeavor. An avid sports fan, Jim held a Blue Jacket athletic pass and could often be found cheering on the local teams with enthusiasm and pride.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his infant son, Darren.

Jim is survived by his wife, Darla Spencer of Cambridge; his son, Luke (Michelle) Spencer of Bradford; his grandsons, Lucas Spencer (Kenzie) of Bradford, and Darren Spencer (Madeline) stationed in Hawaii; and his siblings, Don (Marilyn) Spencer of Cambridge, Kay Heinemann of Elk River, and Michael (Charlotte) Spencer of Bella Vista, AR, many nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

Funeral Service 11AM, Thursday, December 4, 2025 at Cambridge Lutheran Church.  Visitation one hour prior to the service.  Interment in the church cemetery with Military Honors by the Cambridge American Legion.

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